What to Do While You Wait for Your Custom Cadillac

Pre-Ordered a Cadillac? What to Do While You Wait

If you’re looking to upgrade your current vehicle, custom ordering your new Cadillac can be rewarding in several ways. Build-to-order (BTO) gives buyers the ability to tailor their vehicle specifically to their preferences and lifestyle.

BTO vehicles offer a level of customization that is not available with pre-built vehicles. It also allows time for careful planning before you make your choice and can be financially advantageous.

When placing a custom order, there is a waiting period involved before you can slip into your new driver’s seat. Your factory build may take weeks or months depending on several factors, including factory location and the demand for the vehicle model you have ordered. A highly anticipated new release or electric vehicle may require a longer wait.

Fortunately, there are a few ways you can make the most of your time, before and after you place your order.

Before you sign

Even if you order online, you will be working with a local dealership to handle paperwork and oversee the delivery of your vehicle. Establishing a relationship with your salesperson during the process will help you take maximum advantage of whatever incentives may be available.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Create a build sheet.
• Research the vehicle MSRP.
• Negotiate an out-the-door price.

A deposit may be required, and the amount can vary. The agreed-upon price will be signed by all parties in a buyer’s sheet and retained for your records to ensure the established terms are maintained. It’s also the ideal time to clarify the terms if the BTO contract is canceled, such as if the down payment is refundable.

Most importantly, you can plan your purchase around the end of your current lease term or the sale of the vehicle you’re replacing. So, before you finalize your paperwork, clarify how best to track your vehicle’s progress and identify deadlines for making changes to your order.

Early in the process

Although a dealership can’t give you an exact delivery date, they can provide regular progress updates and you can message them to get the latest information. The original projected delivery date is an estimate.

Typically, after you submit your order to the dealer, it is communicated to the factory for build out. Once the vehicle is built, it’s shipped to the dealer. The dealer will then inspect the vehicle before delivering it to you.

In the meantime, this is a perfect opportunity to do lease-end preparations on a leased Cadillac, including:

• Scheduling a pre-return inspection, or obtaining an appraisal on a possible trade-in.
• Prequalifying for financing.
• Estimating down payment and monthly cost.

If you are currently leasing, you can inquire about disposition and excess wear fees and see if you qualify for any waivers.

Once you have a delivery date

When you are more certain about the delivery date on your new Cadillac, it’s time to arrange your financing, if you haven’t already started your prequalification.

You can also continue to check with your dealership about any last-minute incentives you may qualify for. This is also a good time to arrange insurance on your new vehicle and research any other protection offerings you may be interested in.

Connect with your dealership about a backup plan in case there are any unanticipated delays. For instance, a lease extension may be available if your leased vehicle expires prior to delivery of your new Cadillac. If your financial circumstances take an unforeseen turn, you may have options, as long as you discuss with your dealership as early as possible.

When your car is ready

On the day your Cadillac arrives, the dealership will work with you to arrange pickup or delivery, if available. If you haven’t already, complete your lease turn-in or negotiate the price on a trade-in. Keep in mind that a leased vehicle may still have outstanding fees or taxes that will need to be paid after you turn it in.

Before you finalize the purchase, here is a checklist to assist with the last-minute details:

• Have your financing and down payment in place.
• Complete any remaining paperwork.
• Thoroughly inspect your new vehicle to ensure it matches your order request and hasn’t sustained any damage in transit.
• Every new vehicle includes a factory warranty. You may choose to extend coverage with a Cadillac Protection Plan.

Custom ordering a Cadillac can be rewarding if you make the most of the wait. By planning the financial aspects ahead of time, you can minimize the time spent at the dealership when your custom vehicle arrives.

By Jessica Llanes, Cadillac Financial

Jessica Llanes is an off-road adventurer, EV enthusiast and bon vivant raised in New Orleans. When she’s not traveling, she enjoys sharing a homecooked meal with friends, curling up with an Agatha Christie novel, or binge-watching classic episodes of Top Gear (or Top Chef).